Such was the response of the speculative theologians who, in debating unbelievers and followers of deviant doctrines, advanced views and arguments incompatible with the Sharia and rejected by sound reason. They thus resembled those who fought the unbelievers in a manner that wronged them, transgressed the Sharia, and wronged all the believers, until that fighting brought greater harm than benefit to the Muslims, to themselves, and to their enemies. We have discussed similar matters at length elsewhere.

At most, this is a reply that turns the opponent’s premises against him, not one that establishes knowledge. It benefits neither the inquirer nor the debater. For when someone who affirms the divine attributes says to them:

“Every